South Beach is, well, South Beach. You could mock it for being too over-the-top, too chic, a caricature of itself, but it will still be South Beach. The water is clear, the food is great and the people are gorgeous -- and with the perfect combination of flamboyance and eccentricity, it remains a nightlife epicenter. The art deco lined streets of Collins Avenue house hotel after hotel, but there are only a handful worth staying at -- the Sagamore is one of them. With its art theme and oceanfront property, there’s little to complain about, but how does it compare to the neighboring competition?

South Beach in general is young, and if you’re young and rich it’s even better. Late nights turn into early mornings, and minimal bar tabs turn into mortgage-like payments. But if you want to stay in the heart of it all, the Sagamore is really in a prime location. Sure, the lobby is bare (a minimalist look that complies with its art gallery theme) but the beach is steps away, as is everything else. On the walls of the darkly lit hallways are quotes from Picasso and Pollack, and the lobby bar is lined with Roman-like sculptures, reminding you that there really is no consistency in this city. If you haven’t been to South Beach, do a little research (beyond watching Scarface and Miami Vice).

It’s nice to relax on the beach, smoking a cigar. But we all know it can be equally relaxing to be in the bathroom with the Sunday Times. The Sagamore is a great place to do just that. With a highly equipped bathroom, the robes, water pressure, and especially the toiletries are all top-notch. But it’s really the rest of the space that impresses: All rooms at the Sagamore are suites, providing ample space for whatever craziness you might endure during your stay. A small kitchen area, comfortable leather couches and a flat panel TV make for an accommodating setup. Outside the hotel, the pool and bar area provide an impressive layout, but they might pale in comparison to the neighboring Delano. However, for those who like a more low-key pool scene (low-key by Miami standards anyway) and don’t mind a slight sacrifice in aesthetics, the Sagamore is your best bet.